Fire crews are battling an out of control wildfire south of Fredericton near Tweedside Road and Oromocto Lake. The blaze grew to 10 hectares by Thursday evening and is currently 50 percent contained.

The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization states the fire poses a low risk to the public. Officials first detected the flames on Wednesday night. By Thursday afternoon, the affected area expanded from six to 10 hectares.

According to CBC News, the province is notifying owners of recreational camps located on Crown land about the situation. If you own a camp in this area, officials want you to be aware of the potential risks.

Crews Work to Contain the Blaze

“Fire crews from the Department of Natural Resources are on scene working to contain the wildfire,” the Emergency Measures Organization said in a statement. “The public is asked to stay clear of the area to allow crews to do their work.”

A second fire sparked in the same region just after noon on Thursday. Crews quickly contained that blaze, keeping it to a fraction of a hectare.

Residents React to the Smoke

Local residents are keeping a close eye on the situation. Judy Burgess owns a home near Oromocto Lake and traveled to the area to check on her property after hearing the news.

“I see a whole bunch of smoke down at the very end, and you know, it is a little scary,” Burgess told CBC News.

Officials have not issued an evacuation order. Burgess noted she feels reassured by the heavy presence of water bombers flying overhead.

“We are just watching and listening to the officials telling us the status of it,” she said. “There are a lot of airplanes, and that is a good sign.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the wildfire located?

The fire is burning south of Fredericton near Tweedside Road and Oromocto Lake.

Is the public at risk?

The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization confirms the fire currently poses a low risk to the general public.

How large is the fire?

As of Thursday evening, the fire covers 10 hectares and is 50 percent contained.

Are there evacuation orders in place?

No evacuation orders exist at this time. Officials are notifying owners of nearby recreational camps on Crown land about potential risks.